THE FEDERAL POLYTECHNIC EDE

OSUN STATE, NIGERIA

SCHOOL OF ENVIRONMENTAL STUDIES

DEPARTMENT OF ARCHITECTURAL TECHNOLOGY

ARC 423: INTRODUCTION TO MODERN ARCHITECTURE

AKINWUMI SAMUEL WALE AH20220104343

ONAOLAPO GABRIEL OLUWATOBILOBA AH20220106900

WASIU HAMMED OLALEKAN AH20220106938

ADEBISI SAHEED OLAMILEKAN AH20220106076

SUBMITTED TO:

ARC. O.J OTITIOLA

Modern Movement in Architecture

The Modern Movement, a significant architectural shift in the 20th century, marked a radical departure from traditional styles. It was a
response to the rapid industrialization and urbanization of the era, and a desire for architecture that reflected modern society and
technology.

Key Characteristics of Modern Movement Architecture

Form Follows Function

One of the most important characteristics of the Modern Movement in architecture is the idea of "form follows function." This means
that buildings should be designed based on their purpose, with aesthetics following function. This is in contrast to earlier architectural
styles, which often focused on ornamentation and decoration.

Minimalism
Another key characteristic of the Modern Movement is minimalism. This is evident in the use of clean lines, simple forms, and a focus
on materials and structure. This approach is often contrasted with the ornate and decorative styles of earlier architectural periods.

Open Floor Plans

Modern Movement architects also often used open floor plans. This means that buildings have fewer walls and divisions, creating a
sense of openness and space. This approach is in contrast to earlier architectural styles, which often used smaller, more enclosed
rooms.

Emphasis on Volume and Space

The Modern Movement also placed a strong emphasis on volume and space. This is evident in the use of large windows, open floor
plans, and a focus on creating a sense of openness and light. This approach is in contrast to earlier architectural styles, which often
used smaller, more enclosed spaces.

Integration with the Environment

Finally, the Modern Movement also focused on integrating buildings with their environment. This is evident in the use of natural
materials, such as wood and stone, and in the design of buildings that blend in with their surroundings. This approach is in contrast to
earlier architectural styles, which often used more artificial materials and designs that were more imposing

Influential Figures and Styles

Walter Gropius
  Founder of the Bauhaus School: Gropius was a German architect and founder of the Bauhaus School, a renowned institution
that had a profound influence on modern architecture and design.

 Emphasis on Function: Gropius emphasized the importance of function over form, believing that buildings should be
designed based on their purpose.

 Innovative Use of Materials: He was known for his innovative use of materials, such as steel and glass, which allowed for
new building forms and larger spans.

 Iconic Work: The Bauhaus Building in Dessau, Germany, is a prime example of Gropius's work and a testament to the
Bauhaus philosophy.

Le Corbusier
 Five Points of Architecture: Le Corbusier, a Swiss-French architect, developed the "Five Points of Architecture," a set of
principles that defined modern architecture.

 Emphasis on Machine Aesthetics: He embraced the machine aesthetic, believing that architecture should reflect the
technological advancements of the era.

 Pioneering Urban Planning: Le Corbusier was also a pioneer in urban planning, proposing visionary plans for cities that
emphasized efficiency and functionality.

 Iconic Work: The Villa Savoye in Poissy, France, is considered one of his most iconic works, exemplifying his Five Points of
Architecture.
Mies van der Rohe
 Less is More: Mies van der Rohe, a German-American architect, was known for his minimalist approach to architecture, often
summarized by the phrase "less is more."

 Emphasis on Structure: He focused on the structural elements of buildings, using materials like steel and glass to create open
and airy spaces.

 Influence on Skyscraper Design: Mies van der Rohe's work had a significant impact on the design of skyscrapers, with his
focus on clean lines and open floor plans.

 Iconic Work: The Farnsworth House in Plano, Illinois, is a prime example of his minimalist style, with its open plan and use
of glass walls.

The International Style

 Shared Characteristics: The International Style was a movement that emerged in the 1920s and 1930s, characterized by its
emphasis on function, form, and the use of modern materials.

 Global Influence: The International Style gained widespread acceptance and influence across the globe, with many countries
adopting its principles in their architecture.

 Iconic Work: The Seagram Building in New York City, designed by Ludwig Mies van der Rohe and Philip Johnson, is a
prime example of the International Style.
The Modern Movement in architecture, which emerged in the early 20th century, had a profound and enduring impact on the built
environment. Its emphasis on function, form, and the use of modern materials led to a radical transformation of architectural design.

Key aspects of the Modern Movement's legacy include:

 Standardization and Efficiency: The movement's focus on functionality and mass production led to the development of
standardized building components and construction methods. This approach increased efficiency and reduced costs, making
architecture more accessible to a wider population.

 Integration with Nature: Modernist architects recognized the importance of integrating buildings with their natural
surroundings. They often used large windows and open floor plans to connect indoor spaces with outdoor landscapes, creating
a sense of harmony between architecture and nature.

 Urban Planning and Development: The Modern Movement also had a significant impact on urban planning and
development. Its emphasis on functionality and efficiency led to the creation of new urban models, such as the "superblock"
and the "green city." These models sought to improve living conditions and create more sustainable and livable cities.

 Influence on Subsequent Architectural Styles: The Modern Movement's principles and ideas have continued to influence
subsequent architectural styles, including Brutalism, Postmodernism, and Deconstructivism. These styles have further explored
and developed the concepts introduced by the Modern Movement, leading to a rich and diverse architectural landscape.

In conclusion, the Modern Movement in architecture has had a far-reaching and lasting impact on the built environment. Its emphasis
on function, form, and efficiency, as well as its integration with nature and urban planning, has shaped the way we design and build
our cities and buildings today.